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Introduced by Rep. James McGovern (D-MA)
(For complete details about H.R. 4232, including a link to the full text of the bill, a list of co-sponsors, and recent actions on the bill in the U.S. House, click here.)
H.R.4232 would prohibit further use of Defense Department funds to deploy United States Armed Forces to Iraq. Funds could still be used to provide for:
In addition, the bill would not prohibit or restrict non-defense funding to carry out reconstruction in Iraq
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1. Why are there no dates, timelines or deadlines?
There are no specific dates in the bill to give it longevity. For example, H.J.Res 55 calls for the President to announce a plan for withdrawal of troops from Iraq by December 31, 2005. After that date, the bill will have to be rewritten.
2. When would the bill take effect?
As soon as the bill is signed into law, the DoD will not be able to use funds to deploy armed forces in Iraq.
3. Does this bill abandon our troops, leave them stranded in Iraq?
Rep. McGovern’s office worked closely with the Legislative Counsel* to craft a bill that would ensure the safety of the troops. Specifically, the bill calls for funds to “provide for the safe and orderly withdrawal of the Armed Forces from Iraq”. The DoD will be responsible for planning and implementing a safe and orderly withdrawal.
* Legislative Counsel is the non-partisan office that helps members of Congress write their bills to ensure that the bills accomplish what the member intends, using the appropriate language.
4. Is this a “cut and run” bill?
No, this bill recognizes that the very presence of U.S. troops is fueling the insurgency and increasing violence. But the bill also recognizes that the U.S. has an obligation to Iraq and allows for the use of defense funds to:
ensure the security of Iraq and the transition to democratic rule by:
"(A) carrying out consultations with the Government of Iraq, other foreign governments, the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), the United Nations, and other international organizations; or
(B) providing financial assistance or equipment to Iraqi security forces and international forces in Iraq."
In addition, the bill recognizes the importance of reconstruction:
"(C) Rule of Construction- Nothing in this section shall be construed to prohibit or otherwise restrict the use of funds available to any department or agency of the Government of the United States (other than the Department of Defense) to carry out social and economic reconstruction activities in Iraq."
5. Won’t this bill hurt the morale of our troops?
The Bush Administration sent our neighbors, friends and relatives into a war based on manipulated intelligence, without adequate planning, or equipment, and they are refusing to say how or when the mission will end. It is time they stop using our troops as human shields for their failed policies. This bill simply recognizes that it is time for the troops to come home--which should boost morale.
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